Distribution law
Software manufacturers such as Microsoft or Corel enable certified sales partners (resellers) to sell products to consumers. So-called reseller rights are granted. Only authorized partners have the right to sell software licenses and are obligatory members of the manufacturer's partner program. Resellers are granted the non-exclusive right to actively market and distribute software under license within the EU / EFTA. Notwithstanding this, resellers may also operate in other regions, subject to written agreement.

The dealer is obliged to offer the software products under the respective product names of the manufacturer. Relevant property rights and copyright notices must be observed or affixed. All brand names and registered trademarks are the property of the respective manufacturer. Technical specifications must always correspond to the manufacturer's specifications. Images, symbols and logos are used to identify articles. The goods sold remain the property of the retailer until full payment has been received.

License Act
According to the current case law of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH, judgment of 17.07.2013 - I ZR 129/08), specialist retailers are obliged to document the legality and permissibility of the software offered. Software licenses may only be put into circulation with the consent of the rights holder. The license is granted in return for a payment that makes it possible to obtain a remuneration that corresponds to the economic value of the software. The rights holder obliges the retailer to sell the software on a permanent basis without any time limit on its use. The consumer is informed that the software is subject to the license conditions and product usage rights of the software manufacturer.

The purchaser has a simple, unrestricted right to use the software. He may not copy it or allow others to use it. Multiple rights of use require a separate agreement.